The Tampa Bay Buccaneers focused heavily on rebuilding their defense this offseason. General manager Jason Licht added several veterans in free agency before using four of his first five draft picks on defenders.
Still, the Buccaneers didn’t ignore the offense.
Tampa Bay signed veteran running back Kenneth Gainwell in free agency. The team also added wide receiver Ted Hurst in the third round of the NFL Draft.
Those moves may not have generated the biggest headlines. However, Baker Mayfield already believes one addition could become an important piece of the offense.
Mayfield Praises Gainwell’s Complete Skill Set
Gainwell arrived after spending time with the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers. He gives Tampa Bay another versatile weapon alongside Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker.
Mayfield has admired Gainwell’s game for years. Now, he gets to see that versatility every day.
“Ken has been doing great,” Mayfield stated. “He’s somebody that I’ve respected from afar when he was Philly and the Steelers. You can tell he’s a sharp kid who’s always been able to do pass protection stuff. He was doing that in Philly from a very early on in his career point, and then in Pittsburgh he actually balled out. Now to have him here, we’re lucky because he’s extremely sharp, a great leader, can do everything you ask for. Obviously with Bucky coming back slowly it’s good to have those guys, and obviously the running back room still having Tuck in there as well.”
That endorsement carries weight.
Mayfield values players who understand every aspect of the offense. His comments suggest Gainwell has already earned trust in pass protection, leadership, and overall football intelligence.
An Ideal Fit for Tampa Bay’s Offense
The Buccaneers targeted Gainwell because of his well-rounded game.
His skill set closely resembles Irving’s. That allows offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard to maintain the same offensive approach, regardless of which back is on the field.
That versatility became even more valuable this offseason.
Irving has been working his way back after shoulder surgery. Gainwell handled plenty of first-team reps throughout offseason workouts while Irving eased back into action.
Opportunity Awaits in 2026
Gainwell enters Tampa Bay following the best season of his career.
He surpassed 1,000 yards from scrimmage in 2025. He also caught 73 passes after never recording more than 33 receptions in a previous season.
With Rachaad White no longer on the roster, those receiving opportunities remain available.
If Gainwell continues building chemistry with Mayfield, he could become one of the Buccaneers’ most valuable offensive additions this season.
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